Routing & Sealing: One of the Best Methods for Repairing Road Cracks

The condition of roads and road safety parameters can tell a lot about the future of the nation and the city. If you have good road infrastructure, it means your area is developed, and authorities are working to keep their citizens safe while driving on the road.

However, after taking good care of everything, we all know everything comes with an expiry or shelf life.

This goes the same for roads also. After some time, it can develop cracks and potholes, which pose significant risks to the safety of people driving on the road.

Apart from the time, the following are the few things that contributed to road damage before the time:

1. Weather Conditions:

   Adverse weather conditions can be a major factor contributing to road damage. Extreme temperatures, frequent freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rainfall, and storms can weaken the road surface over time. Water, especially, can seep into cracks and cause the pavement to deteriorate, leading to potholes and uneven surfaces.

2. Heavy Traffic Load:

   The volume and weight of traffic on the road significantly impact its condition. High traffic density, especially from heavy vehicles like trucks and buses, can accelerate wear and tear. The constant pressure and friction from vehicles can lead to the formation of ruts, cracks, and structural fatigue, compromising the road’s integrity.
   

3. Poor Design and Planning:

   Roads that are poorly designed and planned are prone to premature damage. Inadequate drainage systems, improper slope gradients, and flawed road layouts can contribute to water accumulation, erosion, and increased vulnerability to environmental factors, exacerbating road degradation.

4. Natural Disasters:

   Unpredictable events such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides can cause severe damage to roads. These natural disasters can alter the terrain, undermine road foundations, and lead to structural failures. Resilient road design and construction practices are necessary to mitigate the impact of such events.

5. Chemical Exposure:

   Exposure to corrosive substances, such as de-icing salts and chemicals used for road maintenance, can accelerate the deterioration of road surfaces. Chemicals can weaken the integrity of the materials, causing them to break down more rapidly.

If a crack appears, it should be repaired as early as possible. When it comes to Road crack repair services in Australia, one of the best methods is Routing & sealing.

The Process of Routing and Sealing 

Routing and sealing is the simplest and most economical means to repair isolated, fine and large cracks. It is a nonstructural repair that consists of enlarging the crack and filling it with a suitable joint sealant. Depending on the size and shape of the sealant reservoir and the type of sealer used, routing and sealing can seal both active and dormant cracks. This method is ideal for horizontal surfaces but can also be used for vertical, overhead and curved surfaces.

Routing:

The identified crack is prepared for repair during the routing process. This involves using specialised equipment, such as routers, to widen and clean the crack. Creating a reservoir or groove in the trial allows a larger area to apply the joint sealant. The shape and size of this reservoir play a crucial role in the effectiveness of the repair.

Sealing:

The next process we will move to is sealing. However, before we actually start with the sealing process, the choice of joint sealant is essential for its success. The sealant should suit the type of crack, the surrounding environment, and the expected traffic load. Common sealants include:

• Hot-applied asphalt rubber.
• Silicone.
• Other flexible materials that can accommodate the movement of the cracked surface.

Once the crack is prepared, the selected joint sealant is applied to the reservoir. This is typically done using specialised equipment that ensures the sealant is distributed evenly and adheres well to the crack walls. The sealant not only seals the crack but also prevents water intrusion, debris, and other harmful elements.

After the joint sealant is applied, it undergoes a curing or setting process. This allows the sealant to harden and create a durable, flexible seal over the crack. The curing time may vary depending on the type of sealant used, environmental conditions, and the specific product specifications.

Summary:

Routing and Sealing offer a straightforward yet highly efficient approach to tackling cracks on road surfaces. When seeking road repair services in your locality, conducting thorough research on local companies is advisable. Local service providers possess a nuanced understanding of the issues at hand and can adeptly assist you in resolving them. It is also important to note that the challenges and methodologies involved may vary based on the region and the specific conditions of the roads in question. Therefore, don’t hesitate to inquire, ask questions, and seek clarification to ensure you make an informed decision about the road repair services you choose.

 

Read more…